Michael J. Boyd

In 29 years, Michael Boyd accomplished more in his life than one could possibly imagine. A tremendous athlete, friend, and family member, Mike lived a life filled with battles on and off the field. His greatest battle, however, lasted nearly four years - one he ultimately lost to cancer.





Since his youth, Mike thrived on competition. His competitive nature and athletic ability helped him to build a legacy as one of Reading Memorial High School's greatest student-athletes. He captained both the football and basketball teams as a senior in 1999, winning a pair of Super Bowls for the Rockets along the way.





Mike's athletic success often overshadowed his infectious personality. He was well-liked by all for all of the right reasons. From his friends to his family, to just about anyone he encountered, people were naturally drawn to Mike.





Mike went on to have a successful football career at Bentley College and later served as an assistant football coach for Merrimack College and assistant baseball coach for Winchester High school.





The impact Mike had on others could best be illustrated by the outpouring of support when he first became ill. The night he was admitted to the hospital for the first time, an endless line of friends overtook the entire floor waiting for their opportunity to see him. That was three years ago.





Despite the difficulties he endured through his battle with cancer, Mike still made every effort to give back to those who meant the most to him. In his final years, Mike served as an assistant coach for the Reading football team. With the symptoms of cancer clearly visible to both the players and other coaches, Mike was still able to coach with the same passion that he once played with. And the inspiration he imparted in those years would prove to be his greatest athletic accomplishment.

More than anything, Mike loved his friends and family, the closest of which remained by his side up until his death.





He leaves behind his parents Patrice and Richard, along with his brother Neal, sister Melissa and Donny, all of Reading. He was nephew to Jim and Ann Boyd of Reading; Carl and Beverly Gerade of North Reading; Barbara and Jerry Staudinger of Wapato, Washington; Steven and Robin Williams of Derry, New Hampshire. He was cousin to Jeff and Matt Boyd; Ben, Eric, Amanda, Amy, and Vanessa Gerade; Scott and Heidi Staudinger, and Ryan Williams. He was a loving uncle to Ashley, Keighley, Mackenzie, and Madison. He also leaves behind a group of loyal friends who stood by him until the end.





A Funeral Mass celebrating Michael's life will be held on Saturday at 10 am in St. Patrick Church, 71 Central St. Stoneham. Family and friends are cordially invited to gather and share remembrances with the Family on Friday from 4-8pm in the Doherty -Barile Family Funeral Home 11 Linden St. READING. Parking attendants will be available.





Those wishing to make a contribution in Mike's name may donate to the Reading Scholarship Foundation.